CD44n

CD44n is a splice variant of the CD44 cell surface glycoprotein, which plays a crucial role in cell-cell interactions, cell adhesion, and migration. It is one of the 20 known splice variants of the CD44 gene in humans, which arises from alternative splicing of the primary transcript. The CD44n splice variant lacks the hyaluronic acid-binding activity, which is a distinctive feature of the standard CD44 isoform.

Research has shown that CD44n is highly expressed in human colon cancer and other types of epithelial tumors. Its expression has been associated with tumor progression, metastasis, and poor prognosis in various cancer types. CD44n has also been implicated in the modulation of the cellular response to the extracellular matrix, influencing cell migration, invasion, and the establishment of a favorable microenvironment for tumor growth.

The precise mechanisms by which CD44n contributes to cancer progression are not fully understood, but its role in facilitating cell migration and invasion has been highlighted. Additionally, its interaction with other proteins, including CD24 and cornichon/B-localization trafficking component 1 (CLTC1), may modulate signaling pathways involved in tumor progression.

Ongoing research aims to elucidate the specific role of CD44n in cancer biology and to identify potential therapeutic targets for its inhibition. Multiple CD44-targeting therapies are in various stages of development, and these may provide new avenues for treating CD44n-expressing cancers. Further studies are needed to clarify the impact of CD44n on the progression and treatment of CD44n-expressing tumors.